Author: Martie Gonzales

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan–The Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office (PTCAO) and the Provincial Library hosted a compelling book talk on February 24, 2025, featuring historian Ian Christopher B. Alfonso and his book, Dogs in Philippine History.

The event, held at the Pangasinan Provincial Library, brought together students from Pangasinan Polytechnic College, PTCAO, Office of the Provincial Veterinarian, and Provincial Library staff, book enthusiasts, journalists, and dog lovers who are eager to explore the deep historical connections between Filipinos and their canine companions. The program opened with a warm welcome from Provincial Library Head Ms. Ma. Cynthia Encarnita F. Vila, who highlighted the importance of broadening historical knowledge in Pangasinan. “We are delighted to welcome this additional history to Pangasinan,” she said, emphasizing the significance of Alfonso’s research in enriching the province’s understanding of its past.

PTCAO Department Head Ms. Maria Luisa Amor-Elduayan followed with an inspiring message that challenged the audience: “If dogs can affect change, what more can Pangasinenses do for Pangasinan?” Her words encouraged reflection on the role of individuals in preserving history and fostering progress.

Ian Christopher B. Alfonso, an assistant professor at the University of the Philippines Diliman and a board member of the Philippine Historical Association, captivated the audience with his extensive research on the role of dogs in Philippine society. A former historian at the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP), Alfonso’s research interests are Philippine precolonial and early colonial history, the Philippine Revolution, toponymy, cultural heritage and management, animal history, and the local history of Manila Bay communities. His book, Dogs in Philippine History, delves into how dogs were more than just pets—they were hunters, guardians, warriors, and even symbols of social status in precolonial communities. A key highlight of the discussion was Smoky, a small Yorkshire Terrier who became a war hero during World War II and played a vital role in the Lingayen Gulf Landings, a significant event that led to the liberation of Luzon. Discovered in a foxhole in Papua New Guinea and later adopted by U.S. Army Corporal William A. Wynne, Smoky became an invaluable asset to military operations. In early 1945, she was tasked with a daring mission—running a telecommunication wire through a narrow 60-foot pipe under the field along the Lingayen Beach. This small but crucial act prevented the need for open-trench digging, which could have exposed soldiers to enemy fire. Her bravery not only saved lives but also demonstrated the intelligence and loyalty of war dogs.

Smoky’s contributions extended beyond the battlefield. She was recognized as the “Best Mascot for the Southwest Pacific” by Yank Down Under, a wartime Allied magazine, for her service. Additionally, she became the world’s first recorded therapy dog. When Wynne was hospitalized with dengue fever at the 233rd Station Hospital in New Guinea, Smoky’s presence significantly aided his recovery. Dr. Charles Mayo, the hospital’s commanding officer and founder of the Mayo Clinic, observed her positive impact and allowed her to stay, pioneering the idea of animal-assisted therapy. After the war, Smoky continued to uplift soldiers, performing tricks and providing comfort in hospitals across the U.S. and abroad. Her story paved the way for modern therapy dog programs, proving that even the smallest companions can leave an indelible mark on history.

Alfonso’s discussion shed light on the invaluable contributions of dogs in shaping historical narratives. He emphasized that stories like Smoky’s serve as reminders of the enduring bond between humans and animals, especially in times of war and adversity. The event concluded with an engaging discussion and a book signing session, leaving attendees with a newfound appreciation for the historical significance of dogs. Through this book talk, Alfonso not only honored the contributions of dogs throughout Philippine history, but also inspired the audience to reflect on their roles in preserving the past and fostering positive change in their communities.

/MJSE

Photos: MRTE

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan—Determined to bring government services closer to people, the Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office (PTCAO) took charge in facilitating the Bantay Kalusugan Outreach Program at Lasip Elementary School last February 20, 2025, together with the Pangasinan Provincial Jail (PPJ) under the supervision of Retired PCol. Lovell U. Dalisay.

This initiative was launched by the Provincial Government of Pangasinan under the leadership of Governor Ramon V. Guico III as an extension of the Guicosina Meals on Wheels Program which aims to effectively resolve challenges concerning malnutrition and hunger in local communities.

In her message, PTCAO Chief Maria Luisa Amor-Elduayan introduced to pupils as well to teachers and parents the instituted projects of the provincial government dedicated to continuously  empower the youth, including the establishment of the Pangasinan Polytechnic College which offers free tertiary education to Pangasinenses, and the Banáan Pangasinan Provincial Museum that proudly displays the rich culture, legacy, and heritage of the province.

Excellent dance performances coming from the Capitol Dancers were also enjoyed by the audience and was followed by an interactive activity which exhibited the wit of attendees regarding Pangasinan history and tourist destinations. Teaching and non-teaching staff of Lasip Elementary School led by their principal, Mr. Jayson Iglesia, likewise received several local products such as eco bags, keychains, and mugs made by local MSME concessionaire partners.

Afterwards, PTCAO joined the distribution of arroz caldo meals with boiled eggs to 367 learners, 17 school staff, and parents as the final part of the community engagement. The Bantay Kalusugan Outreach Program is mainly hosted by the PPJ and the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) in collaboration with other provincial government offices which are set to visit primary public schools across the province.

/EJQ

Photos: PTCAO

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan—Heartwarming stories of Pangasinan artists echoed within the walls of the newly opened art exhibit: Wala Yan Tongtong Ko (I Have A Story To Tell), in celebration of National Arts Month 2025 of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA). The event was spearheaded by the Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office (PTCAO) with a ceremonial ribbon-cutting on February 17 at the Banáan Pangasinan Provincial Museum, Casa Real.

Invited guests and attendees feasted their eyes on beautiful masterpieces displayed on the pristine walls of the museum’s Asin Gallery. The art exhibit offers a chance to convey personal stories of featured Pangasinan artists through the lens of art and is deeply rooted within the cultural pulse of the province. The artworks are mainly a collection of acrylic paintings, mixed media pieces, and digital photography.

In her remarks, Ms. Maria Luisa Amor-Elduayan, department head of PTCAO, highlighted the province of Pangasinan’s recent recognition by the Department of Health as one of the healthiest communities in the Philippines. It is a distinction that she attributed in part to the thriving cultural heritage of the province. “Malaki po ang kontribusyon ninyo sa pagtatawag sa atin na isa sa mga healthy communities in the Philippines. Nagagawa po natin ang mga katulad nitong exhibit dahil nandiyan po kayo na patuloy na lumilikha (Your contribution is tremendous in our recognition as one of the healthy communities in the Philippines. We are able to organize this kind of exhibit thanks to your continuous creations),” she said.

The heart of the exhibition is ‘A Salty Project,’ a group composed of talented artists in Pangasinan. Among the standout artworks was a Triptych piece of a Dagupeña artist, Teressa Martinez. It was named Consapevolezza or ‘awareness’ in Italian by the male figure in the artwork, Sylvester Salcedo. He eagerly said, “The artistic goal is that, in 35,000 years of world art, the male figure is always represented by, basically, puti [or] whites…almost never a Filipino. It’s time na [ipagmalaki] natin that the Filipino male figure deserves full respect and acknowledgement (It’s time we showcase that the Filipino male figure deserves full respect and acknowledgement).”

One of the featured artists was a 17-year-old teen, Precious Angelie Nipales, who proudly painted the historic town plaza of Mangaldan. Despite her young age, she was deeply honored to have the opportunity to showcase her talent in such a prominent setting. She said, “Ang goal ko po ay ma-capture ‘yong beauty po ng hometown ko, and gusto ko pong iparating na, despite being young, kaya po naming mga batang [katulad ko] (My goal is to capture the beauty of my hometown, and to convey that, despite being young, youths like me are capable of doing so).”

Marni Evangelista, 65, also had a piece on display, a painting inspired by the Angalacan Bridge in his hometown of Mangaldan. His artistic path has inspired his younger sibling, Reynaldo Evangelista, who lives with cerebral palsy, to express his emotions freely through art.

Visitors—whether they are visiting for the first time or returning to witness something new—can enjoy the exhibit until May 2025. The new art gallery is another must-see destination for art lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

/MGE

Photos: JOT

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan – The Capitol Resort Hotel buzzed with excitement last January 30-31, 2025, as the Pangasinan Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office (PTCAO) hosted the Capitol Tour Guiding Training with its new breed of Capitol Tour Guides. This two-day event aimed to increase the number of Capitol Tour Guides and equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge to provide Pangasinan’s renowned hospitality to tourists visiting the Capitol Complex. The training covered topics such as local history, cultural heritage, customer service, and communication techniques to ensure that the new batch of Capitol Tour Guides can offer an informative and engaging experience to visitors.

Ms. Maria Luisa Amor-Elduayan, Department Head of PTCAO, delivered the opening remarks and provided a glimpse of what is expected of a tour guide. She emphasized that while delivering commentary is important, the primary function of a tour guide is to manage the overall tour and provide a memorable experience for visitors.

The morning sessions featured two vital modules. The first, “Personality Development and Customer Service,” was led by Ms. Judith V. Cabillo, a seasoned DOT-accredited regional tour guide. This session highlighted the significance of personal presentation and effective customer service, essential traits for any successful tour guide. She also emphasized the importance of creating a positive first impression on guests, as this sets the tone for the entire tour experience.

Following this, Mr. Nathaniel Joel M. Daroy, Project Development Officer III of PTCAO and a DOT-accredited community guide, presented the second module, “Pangasinan Culture and Heritage.” This session provided participants with a deeper understanding of the local culture and heritage, especially the rich history of the Capitol Complex and the province’s treasures.

After a hearty lunch, the afternoon session continued with “Commentary Development and Practical Guiding Techniques,” led by Ms. Monika Aliguas N. Labaupa, Planning Officer III of the Pangasinan Polytechnic College and a DOT-accredited trainer. The session covered tips and strategies for providing commentary during tours, as well as practical techniques for guiding tourists effectively. The day concluded with a mock tour orientation by Ms. Jenny Joy C. Napolitano.

The second day was dedicated to a mock tour at the Capitol Complex and other key destinations within Lingayen. Participants engaged in a simulation of a mobile and walking tour, visiting significant sites such as the Casa Real, Lingayen Plaza, and the Bagoong Factory. This hands-on experience allowed participants to apply the skills they had learned in a real-world setting.

In the afternoon, the participants returned to the Capitol Resort Hotel for critiquing and evaluation sessions. The panel, composed of Ms. Amor-Elduayan, Ms. Cabillo, Mr. Daroy, and Ms. Napolitano, provided feedback, helping participants refine their guiding techniques. The training concluded with the awarding of certificates and closing remarks, celebrating the participants’ dedication and achievements.

Overall, the Capitol Tour Guiding Training was a success as it paved the way for transforming participants into competent and confident Capitol Tour Guides, ready to showcase the beauty of the Capitol Complex to visitors.

/MTRC

Photos: MRTE

SAN JUAN, La Union—The Province of Pangasinan, represented by its Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office and coastal cities and towns, joined the 3rd North Luzon Travel Expo held at Waves Point last November 21-23, 2024.

Officially launched last 2022 in Clark, Pampanga, the North Luzon Travel Expo is a project spearheaded by Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Hon. Christina Garcia Frasco to revitalize and boost domestic tourism particularly in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR), Ilocos Region, Cagayan Valley, and Central Luzon. Exhibitors from the National Capital Region, CALABARZON, MIMAROPA, and parts of Visayas and Mindanao also joined the event.

With this year’s NLTEx theme anchored on sustainable tourism, Hon. Governor Raphaelle Veronica “Rafy” Ortega-David of the Province of La Union duly emphasized in her speech: “Our natural resources are not merely assets. They are the very foundation of our identity and our future… Sustainable tourism practices are not just a trend… They are a necessity.”

DOT Undersecretary Shalimar Tamano represented Secretary Frasco at the event, extending the Tourism Secretary’s gratitude to the organizers and stakeholders present and likewise echoing her support particularly for biodiversity conservation. “This event, the North Luzon Travel Expo, is a testament to the DOT’s commitment to fostering sustainable tourism development across the region… This year’s edition hosted here in San Juan, La Union not only focuses on revitalizing the tourism industry, but underscores our commitment to biodiversity conservation. Initiatives such as tree planting and pawikan conservation activities remind us that tourism is not only about promoting destinations, but also about protecting the natural and cultural treasures that make these places unique.”

The three-day travel expo was participated by local tourism officers and staff from Pangasinan’s coastal cities and towns, particularly: Agno, Alaminos City, Burgos, Infanta, and Sual.

/MCDG-U

Photos: KSS & MRTE

SAN NICOLAS, Pangasinan—Boasting breathtaking views of the mountains and a majestic sunset, Malico is poised to become one of the premier tourist destinations in Pangasinan. Located in the town of San Nicolas along the eastern flank of the province and dubbed the “Summer Capital of Pangasinan,” it offers a serene escape perfect for nature and adventure-lovers alike. The Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office (PTCAO) conducted a site visit to this up-and-coming tourist destination giving particular attention in assessing the readiness of the various Tourism Related Enterprises (TREs) to the influx of tourists and to experience firsthand what Malico has to offer.

The site visit also provided an opportunity to check the completion of the Villa Verde Trail road, which has made access to Malico easier. This development is expected to boost tourism in the area and attract more visitors looking for a unique experience in Pangasinan and investors looking for more economic opportunities.

During the visit, PTCAO was also able to observe its vast natural and cultural heritage, such as the abundance of Pine Trees, Tiger Grass/Bush, and the opportunities for “A”-frame house design using indigenous materials. The potential for eco-tourism and sustainable development in Malico is evident, with its rich biodiversity and scenic landscapes.

Various camping sites, cafes, and restaurants have been established in and around Malico, allowing tourists to experience the cool breeze at the highest point in Pangasinan while enjoying scenic views of the surrounding mountains and forests. Additionally, the presence of a tourist assistance center offers visitors information on activities, accommodations, and local attractions to enhance their overall experience in Malico. This development demonstrates the local government’s commitment to promoting tourism and asserting Pangasinan’s role in the territorial dispute over Malico. In fact, Governor Ramon V. Guico III has identified this area as one of Pangasinan’s tourism hubs, alongside Alaminos City, Manaoag, Bolinao, and Lingayen.

PTCAO also spoke with various barangay officials inquiring about their current situation, especially concerning the ongoing territorial dispute, but more relevantly to explore potential collaboration and future projects.

On May 23, 2024, the Local Government Unit of San Nicolas, led by Mayor Alicia Primicias-Enriquez, invited PTCAO to a meeting to discuss potential partnerships and initiatives. This meeting also provided an opportunity to exchange observations noted by PTCAO during their visit to Malico, where various establishments had declared themselves part of a neighboring province rather than Pangasinan. The meeting concluded with plans to address this issue and strengthen the connection between PTCAO and LGU San Nicolas.

With its picturesque landscapes, cool climate, and various outdoor activities, Malico is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by tourists seeking a different kind of adventure—a true “strawberry on top” of any travel itinerary.

/MTRC

Photos: LGU San Nicolas

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan—In celebration of the 2024 Pista’y Dayat, the Provincial Government of Pangasinan, through the Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office (PTCAO), launched the “ArtVille by the Gulf” as part of the Pangasinan Art and Music Festival last April 27, 2024 at the ArtVille (in front of the Anea Café area), Capitol Beachfront, Lingayen, Pangasinan.

During the opening program, Ms. Maria Luisa Amor-Elduayan, Department Head of PTCAO, laid down the various programs and activities for arts and culture already accomplished by the Provincial Government of Pangasinan under the administration of Hon. Governor Ramon V. Guico III, some of which are the Banáan Pangasinan Provincial Museum and the recently opened ArtVille by the Gulf. It was followed by the formal opening of ArtVille through a ceremonial painting of a white canvas by Ms. Elduayan together with Ms. Ma. Cynthia Encarnita F. Vila (Provincial Librarian), and the judges for the Langkap: Art Installation.

The ArtVille features a “book nook” by the Pangasinan Provincial Library that offers free and interactive book reading and paper coloring, and arts and crafts made of recycled materials courtesy of the Solid Waste Management under the General Services Office. Other booths feature local artisans, creatives, and young emerging entrepreneurs that showcase and sell their crafts and products, which includes La Union Abel and Crafts, Anik-Anik, Heart Basket, Sikap Arts and Crafts x Gantsilyo Pasilyo, Pangasinan State University, and Zion’s Arts and Crafts.

The ArtVille is also a celebration of arts through a series of live demonstration and interactive activities, including a live demonstration of authentic buri weaving of Bolinao after the opening program. More activities will be conducted in the following days, including crochet weaving, bamboo weaving, creative recycling, pottery making, poetry reading, and handcraft making.

The ArtVille will run until May 4, 2024.

/JDV

Photos: JOT

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan—In celebration of Filipino Food Month this 2024, the Provincial Government of Pangasinan, through the Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office (PTCAO), staged the second Ponsia – Pista’y Dayat Culinary Challenge last April 13, 2024 at the Pangasinan Training and Development Center II.

Board Member Marinor De Guzman from the Fourth District represented Hon. Governor Ramon V. Guico III at the event, expressing collective gratitude for all of the participants and guests at present. “This contest serves as a beacon of innovation and creativity, inviting chefs and culinary enthusiasts to showcase their talent and passion for our local cuisine. As we celebrate Filipino Food Month this April, let us not only indulge in the flavors that unite us as Pangasinenses, but also pay homage to the culinary artisans who keep our traditions alive… May this contest serve as a testament to the richness of our culture and the boundless possibilities of our culinary landscape,” Board Member De Guzman said in her message, likewise underscoring the significance and excitement drawn from the participation of national and local media, influencers, and vloggers from the 2024 NLEX Lakbay Norte as they, too, later joined to watch the cook-off.

Meanwhile, Chief Tourism Operations Officer Gay Gapas from the Department of Tourism Region 1 (DOT-R1), who represented Regional Director Francisco Joseph “Jeff” Ortega, shared the importance of Ponsia as its creation coincided with that of Maykan last year. Maykan, a term that originates from the Ilocano word umay (invitation) and the Ilocano and Pangasinan term makan (food), is a tourism circuit established by the DOT-R1 that centers on discovering and promoting the many and diverse culinary offerings of the region.

The culinary challenge saw six (6) teams consisting of a chef and sous-chef prepare a three course meal: a seafood-based appetizer or soup, a meat-based main dish, and a tropical-themed dessert made of Pangasinan fruits, sweets, and dairy products. GMA celebrity chef JR Royol also joined the event where he treated everyone to a cooking demo and up-close interviews with the participants. After an intense one hour and thirty-minute cook-off and with the discerning expertise of judges Chef Raymond Martin Reyes (Lu Asian Cuisine), Chef Christian Yakie Takanashi (Shiok, A Taste of Singapore), and Chef Karina Mantes (Sweet Sense), the team of Chef Rizal Viray and Sous-chef Jomar de Guzman from Abong ni Tio Berto of Hiraya Wellness Resort and Ecopark in Aguilar emerged victorious, with Chef Ryan Cortez and Sous-chef Johara Dytianquin from Jem’s Cuisine in San Carlos City coming in second place, and Chef Jesus Viliran and Sous-chef Jetlie Garcia of D’Brinks Resto Cafe in Binalonan in third place. Other talented and passionate Pangasinan chefs who took part in the cook-off were Chef Daryll Magalong and Sous-chef Allan Datuin (KapeLuna Restaurant, Bayambang), Chef Victor Luis Tandoc and Sous-chef David Emmanuel Pascua (Cajun Republique Restaurant, Binmaley), and Chef Gerald Quinit and Sous-chef Jane Carla Payopay (Quinit Eco Integrated Farm, Calasiao).

This year’s Ponsia – Pista’y Dayat Culinary Challenge was made possible through partnerships with GMA Regional TV, Señor Tesoro College School of Culinary Arts, and Solane LPG.

/MCDG-U

Photos: KFC & RSR

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan—The Provincial Government of Pangasinan officially started the 2024 Pista’y Dayat festivities with the formal opening of the Pangasinan Agri-Tourism and Trade Expo at the Capitol Plaza last April 12, 2024.

Hon. Governor Ramon V. Guico III expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the MSMEs and LGUs who participated in the expo, as well as the offices and other institutions that planned, supported, and made this year’s expo possible. Governor Guico likewise shared his ambition for the province as a must-visit tourism destination and center for massive events that will cater even international visitors.

While this year’s Pangasinan Tourism and Trade Expo is located at the Capitol Plaza, visitors from all around are treated to a new view and environment, with the historical Capitol Building prominently in the background of the festivities.

/MCDG-U

Photos: KFC & RSR

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan—The Department of Tourism (DOT) Central Office and the DOT Region 1 Office, in partnership with the Provincial Government of Pangasinan, LGU Lingayen, and LGU Bayambang, brought the Philippine Experience Program (PEP) in the province last March 20-21, 2024. PEP is the DOT’s flagship project led by Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco which aims to promote tourism products focused on the country’s Filipino essence and identity.

DOT Secretary Frasco, along with other DOT officials, arrived in the capital town of Lingayen and first set foot at the historical Capitol Building where they were greeted by members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan and provincial government officials.

Hon. Governor Ramon V. Guico III, Hon. Mayor Leopoldo N. Bataoil, and Mr. Francis Lord Salosagcul (representative of Hon. Mayor Mary Clare Judith Phyllis J. Quiambao), joined the delegation at the Banáan Pangasinan Provincial Museum where they were given a complete tour around its eleven galleries.

“I am in full appreciation of the journey that Pangasinan has taken, that has left an imprint in history… Under the leadership of your visionary governor, Pangasinan’s direction is forward, always forward, and we’re here to manifest our full support for your plans for your province,” Secretary Frasco said in a speech at the Banáan Pangasinan Provincial Museum. She likewise extended her personal gratitude to Governor Guico’s father, Hon. Congressman Ramon N. Guico Jr., who made it possible for the DOT head to be confirmed in the Commission of Appointments.

Secretary Frasco expressed her excitement in returning to inaugurate a tourist rest area set to be established in the province possibly later in the year.

Meanwhile, the second day of the PEP tour began with a festive and lively performance by Lingayen’s Bagoong Festival Street Dancers as they welcomed diplomatic corps, regional directors, travel and tour operators, media and influencers, cultural workers, and tourism officers of various LGUs at the Capitol Plaza. At the Sison Auditorium, they were also treated to demos featuring buri weaving and buri bag painting by weavers from Santiago Island, Bolinao, as well as a cooking demo by student-chefs from Señor Tesoro College School of Culinary Arts. Local MSMEs like Freshious, Inc./Pan de Mya Bakery/AmBagelCo, UPLokal, and Cacao Growers were present to showcase local products, alongside Lingayen cuisine in a taway-taway booth set up by the Lingayen Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office. The guests were entertained by performances by Aniwëng na Cuerdas Rondalla and KORO Universidad de Dagupan as well. This was followed by a tour at the Banáan Pangasinan Provincial Museum before the delegates departed for Bayambang for another tour at the St. Vincent Ferrer Prayer Park.

/MCDG-U

Photos: RSR & KFC

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan—The Provincial Government of Pangasinan commemorated the 79th Lingayen Gulf Landings Anniversary and 17th Pangasinan Veterans Day at the Veterans Memorial Park in Lingaye, Pangasinan last January 9, 2024.

The program formally started with a thanksgiving mass presided over by Archbishop Fidelis Layog, followed by the wreath laying ceremony with WWII veteran Mr. Hospicio Mallari, Commander Emma McDonald-Kerr (Defense Attaché of the Australian Embassy in the Philippines representing Her Excellency Ms. Hae Kyong Y), Captain Noel Corpus (Naval Attaché of the Embassy of the United States of America representing Her Excellency Ms. MaryKay L. Carlson), Major  PCOL Jeff Fanged (Provincial Director of the Pangasinan Police Provincial Office), MGEN Romeo Alamillo, Governor Ramon V. Guico III, and USEC Reynaldo Mapagu (Administrator of the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office representing Secretary of National Defense Gilberto Teodoro Jr.).

“Patriotism is the driver and the life blood of any nation. Our veterans is the most important example of patriotism. As we hear their stories, their sacrifices, going to war, they have volunteered themselves. They have experienced so many experiences that nobody, none of us, have ever experienced. Again, my sincerest thanks and most honorable salute to the most honorable veterans of the province of Pangasinan. Sa inyo po at sa inyo pong pamilya, maraming maraming salamat sa inyong sakripisyo (To you and to your families, thank you so much for your sacrifice). We will not be enjoying the freedom that we have today if it were not for the sacrifices and patriotism of our dear veterans,” Governor Guico expressed in his speech as he faced the 37 Pangasinan veterans who were present at the event.

Governor Guico also shared the provincial government’s plan to construct a reflective pool leading to the beachfront and the establishment of a Veterans Plaza in the area, in time for the 80th Lingayen Gulf Landings Anniversary and 18th Pangasinan Veterans Day in 2025. Governor Guico likewise emphasized the importance of documenting the lives and stories of the remaining Pangasinan veterans during World War II, stating that by doing so, the province will be assisting in the preservation of one of Pangasinan’s most remarkable contributions in the history of the Philippines. In this way, current and future generations of Pangasinan will embrace, manifest, and champion the patriotism that the province’s veterans have demonstrated throughout their lives.

“As we express our profound gratitude for the service and sacrifice rendered by the veterans of World War II to whom we owe a perpetual debt of gratitude, may their stories of heroic deeds and selfless sacrifices persevere to inspire us citizens and most especially the youth, to become the partner heroes of their generation,” USEC Mapagu said as he conveyed Secretary Teodoro’s message to the audience.

In his speech, USEC Mapagu also shared the inauguration and opening of the Veterans Ward at the Region 1 Medical Center in Dagupan City on January 10, 2024, which is an initiative of the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office to as they bring the said office’s medical program closer to veterans, particularly those who live far from the Veterans Memorial Medical Center in Quezon City.

The commemorative program also included the showing of a short film chronicling stories from some of the WWII veterans of Pangasinan entitled, “Pamana: Passing the Torch of Bravery and Patriotism to the Nation’s Future Defenders.” A performance from renowned talents Ms. Stefanie Quintin-Avila and Mr. Adrik Cristobal  was also staged during the event in an artful presentation of appreciation of the veterans.

/MCDG-U

Photos: RSR & KFC